After Trump skips Israel on Middle East tour, discussions begin for VP Vance's visit to Israel

[Editor's note: Several hours after the reports, the White House denied that Vice President J.D. Vance would visit Israel soon.]

Following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to skip a visit to Israel during his Middle East tour, advanced talks are underway to coordinate a visit by Vice President J.D. Vance to the country.

Vance is currently in Rome ahead of the inauguration ceremonies for the new pope, Leo XIV, and his office is holding discussions with Israeli officials regarding a possible visit, though nothing has been finalized yet.

Last week, Trump conducted a visit to the Middle East, during which he stopped in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.

At the conclusion of the visit, Trump addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, stating, “The world will be safer and quieter within two to three weeks. We’re dealing with a few things. We’re looking into Gaza – it needs to be addressed; many people are starving and a lot of bad things are happening.”

Trump added: “Many good things will happen in the coming month. We must help the Palestinians.”